Classic rappers, Public Enemy, took the stage in great fashion last night at the Commodore Ballroom. Playing a high energy set of infamous past pieces and newer hits, it was a musical mastery. Chuck D and Flavor Flav were in amazing spirits and spitting fiery lyrics throughout the show. With a backing posse holding the background, the ambiance was something out of 80s rap memories.

Upon entering the musky corridor of the venue, the crowd was easily identifiable. Many of the fanatics, the old school PE lovers, were present. Men strutting around in velour Adidas outfits. Big booty hoes from decades past were now sporting cleavage that was longer due to the weathering of many years. The feeling inside was hype, and huge excitement. First major thing to notice was the length of the line to the bar. Constantly through out the night, it was a 12 person wait to get yourself a little Alize.

After the DJ prepped the crowd, dropping a few auditory bombs, the group rushed the stage. Chuck D with a mean swagger, leaned slowly up the center stage. Following close to him was the crazy Flavor Flav, with a brown towel covering his head. With no hesitation they launched the night. Pieces were immediate connecting with the massive mob before them. Bouncing like a solid unit to the beats of the DJ. Chuck D started spitting lyrics, and it was an immediate flash to the mid eighties. As if not a second had gone by, they performed with ferocity.

Mr.Flac has had much of his time in the lime light over the past few years. Gracing our tv screens with entertaining reality shows. It is no wonder as his on stage persona is over the top and immediately grabs your attention. Creeping around the platform like a crazed Tasmanian devil, launching around in jerky almost impossible movements. His collection of diamond encrusted jewels speckling his figure in the light of the stage. He is someone you must see live, as his connection with the crowd is a back and forth feeding. The fans before him are what fuel his reaction, every group must fuel a variation in his style.

Chuck D still has a lot of fight in his method. When he hits the mic his voice is surreal, something almost chilling about it. Its easy to see why most musicians would kill to work with him, his style is classic and simple yet never old. During the entire set he was leaping around to the beat, like a mad man. He was a man possessed and brought an amazing night to our city.

The entirety of the performance was amazing. It was almost like a once in a lifetime opportunity, like something you might not see again was happening. Their performance was a reincarnation of their initial times in front of a crowd. They played old hits and new licks, but blended them in a seamless manner. All present thoroughly enjoyed the show, some a little too much. The happy mass filtered into the rain streets. Another great night under their belts, thanks to the insanity that is Public Enemy.

Happy Concerting,

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca
...enabling your addiction, one concert at a time...

A calm breeze sailed through the streets, and a reflection of that feeling played out behind the doors of the Commodore Ballroom. Broken Bells played to a sold out venue, and none were to be disappointed. Starting the night was Morning Benders, who set the sweeping tone for the evening. The entirety of the show was gentle, yet dotted with explosive outbursts of instrumental talents.

Stepping out on the stage the foursome that is Morning Benders took front and center. Delving into their material, it was clear to see the diverse influences they have. The initial songs were near psychedelic, with rich full harmonious instrumentals, and hauntingly sweet vocals. Later into the set they starts playing pieces from their new album Big Echo, which was tasty. A few songs had reggae vibes, definitely echoing early Police rifts. Despite a few technical hiccups, they played a genuine course of heart felt numbers. The crowd was less then enthralled, which was a bit sad, as this band has copious amounts of talent. Keep your ear out for Morning Benders, they have something great, it just hasn’t punctured the surface yet.

After a brief interlude, as the horde refilled their beverages and amassed before the stage, the lights extinguished. Taking to the stage was the 7 piece, Broken Bells. The thrall of musically amorous were a flutter with energy. After the first note, and eruption of voices filled the room. It was obvious that the crowd was eager, and the band was humble to react.

Starting into their set it was magical, the singers were mesmerizing. The interplay between the plethora of instruments was mind boggling. Each beat of the drum ignited like a wick through the stage, and set off various accoutrement of guitar riffs and keyboard pieces. The harmony between the members was astounding, each one feeding off the other, building the song as it progressed. Having listened to the recordings, it does not do this band justice. James Mercer and Brian Burton, were front and center, but did not hog any of the lime light. It was a group effort and it was very pleasant to see them all contribute without some front man drinking all the appreciation for themselves.

The feel of this band is something that can only be appreciated live. The tender vocal passion flowing through that venue was intense and emotional. Yet it was wrapped in complex guitars and dirty drum beats. Building through the entire set, forcing the attendees to pay full attention as the level of intensity grew with each moment. Finally near the last few songs it culminated into an explosion of pure connection, everything was syncing; it was amazing.

Broken Bells are that rare live band that can curl your toes. Everything is emotional, and and the same time catchy. Identifying with the pieces was easy, the crowd was drawn to them like a moth to the flame. Anytime this group is to return, it would be a privilege to see them grow, and experience their presentation over and over. Filtering out into the night air, it was obvious by the pleasant smiles, everyone was feeling the same perfection.

Happy Concerting,

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca
...enabling your addiction, one concert at a time...

Ticketmaster Link
Presale Password: CHACHING
On Sale: Thursday May 27th @ 10am

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca
...enabling your addiction, one concert at a time...

Ticketmaster Link
Presale Password: LIPS
On Sale: Thursday May 27th @ 10am

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca
...enabling your addiction, one concert at a time...

Ticketmaster Link
Presale Password: FLAG
On Sale: Thursday May 27th @ 10am

Jamie Taylor
www.concertaddicts.ca
...enabling your addiction, one concert at a time...